UC-NRLF 


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SPENCER'S  BOSTON  THEATRE No.  CXL. 


THE    NAIAD    QUEEN; 


OR, 


THE     REVOLT     OF     THE     NAIADS, 

$0munti£  %ratir 


IN      THREE      ACTS. 

WEITTBN  BY 

J.   S.    DALRYMPLE,  ESQ. 


ORIGIN/IL   CASTS,  COSTUMES,  AND   THE    WHOLE   OF   THE   STAGE 

BUSINESS,  CORRECTLY  MARKED  AND  AKRANGtygp,  BY 

MR.  J.  B.  WRIGHT,  ASSISTANT  MANAGER 

OP  THE  BOSTON  THEATRE. 


BOSTON: 
WILLIAM    V.   SPENCER, 

128  WASHINGTON  STREET,  (CORNER,  or  WATER.) 


THE    NAIAD    QUEEN. 


ACT  I. 

SCENE  I.  —  Gothic  Hall  in  RUPERT'S  Castle,  2  G.  Oriel  window,  L.  F., 
backed  with  moonlight  view;  large  table  in  c.,  with  pitcher,  goblets, 
f$c.  ;  benches  on  R.  and  L,  of  table  ;  Gothic  chair  head  of  table  in  c, 

RODOLPH,    RlNALDO,    MANFREDO,    ALBERT,  ROLANDO,  and  CHORUS, 

seated  at  table  ;  an  aged  PILGRIM  seated  on  stool,  R.  H.  2  E. 
CHORUS. 

To-morrow  and  to-morrow 

May  mingle  smiles  with  ours ; 
Or  falsehood,  shame,  and  sorrow, 
Consume  life's  summer  flowers. 
So  mirth  and  melancholy 

Float  idly  down  the  stream  ; 
One  dissipates  in  folly, 
The  other  in  a  dream. 

Then  drink,  drink,  drink, 
And  merrily  clink 

The  cups  that  overflow ; 
And  one  cheer  more 
We'll  add  to  the  score, 
Before  we  rise  to  go. 

(All  rise  and  come  forward  c.  with  goblets.) 

To-morrow  and  to-morrow, 

The  sooner  let  it  come ; 
We  can  but  steal  or  borrow, 

As  through  the  world  we  roam. 
We  owe  no  monarch  fealty, 

We  share  no  statesman's  gains  ; 
We  fear  not  woman's  frailty, 

And  laugh  at  lovers'  pains. 
Then  drink,  drink,  drink,  &c. 

(All  go  up  and  sit.) 


SCENE   I.]  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN. 


Enter  RUPERT,  followed  by  BAPTISTE,  B.  H.  1  E. 

Hup.     Comrades,  your  hearts  are  light. 

Sap.     Ay,  master,  as  our  purses,  or  the  cup  upon  the  board  yonder. 

Rup.  Well,  friends,  I  grieve  to  entertain  ye  no  better  ;  but  my 
father's  gold  is  long  gone  ;  it  bought  your  services  while  it  lasted, 
and  with  these  services  I,  Rupert,  the  Fearnought,  won  this  castle 
from  its  lord,  levied  tolls  on  the  river,  plundered  the  burgesses  of 
Bingen,  and  palyed  the  chieftain  as  nobly  as  a  robber  may.  But, 
alas  !  fortune  is  no  longer  with  us  ;  we  cannot  now  extract  a  doit  from 
traveller  or  citizen  ;  we  must  shake  hands  and  part. 

Bap.  As  you  will,  Sir  Knight  —  that  is,  master,  I  should  say. 
Better  so  than  fare  worse.  For  my  part,  I'm  weary  of  the  monotony 
of  these  dull  rounds  ;  I'll  to  the  wars ;  an'  there  be  gold  worth  the 
gathering,  it  shall  go  hard  but  a  stout  heart 

Omnes.     (Laughing.}     Ha,  ha,  ha  ! 

Bap.  You  are  welcome  to  laugh,  gentlemen  ;  but,  for  my  part,  I 
never  could  laugh  upon  an  empty  stomach.  I  repeat,  gentlemen,  that 
a  stout  heart  and  trusty  sword  will  still  serve  my  turn.  Rodolph, 
what  say  you  ? 

Rod.     (Laughing.}     Have  with  you,  comrade. 

Bin.     (Laughing.}     So  say  I. 

All.      (Laughing.}     So  say  all. 

Bap.  All ;  so  say  all !  Master,  you  hear  what  they  say  ;  what 
do  you  say  ? 

Rup.  That  when  you  have  all  left,  I  purpose  drowning  myself  in 
the  Rhine.  (Retires  up  to  table,  c. ;  they  utter  an  exclamation  of  dis- 
approval.} 

Pil.  (Rising  and  coming  forward,  R.  H.)  Ah,  if  one  could  get 
at  the  wealth  that  lies  in  the  Rhine,  that  would  be  worth  diving  for  ! 

Bap.  (L.  H.)  Why,  there  can't  be  much  among  the  fishes,  I 
fancy,  unless  those  frosty  eyes  of  thine  have  changed  theirs  into 
diamonds,  and  their  scales  into  pearls. 

Pil.  Thou  art  a  fool !  Gold  there  is,  and  it  may  be  won,  too,  by 
a  handsome  man,  if  he  be  brave  enough. 

Bap.  Handsome  !  brave  !  —  I  think  you  said  handsome  and  brave. 
I  tell  you  what  it  is,  my  knight  of  the  cross  roads,  a  little  less  of 
your  personalities,  if  you  please,  or  I'll  pretty  soon  teach  you  that 
handsome  and  brave  are  with  me  synonymous  terms.  (Half  drawing 
his  sword  and  swaggering.^) 

Rup.     (Rising  and  advancing,  c.)     How  !  sayst  thou  ? 

Pil.  The  water  spirits  have  the  key  to  the  treasure  ;  and  he  who 
wins  their  love  may  chance  to  win  their  gold. 

Bap.  Ugh!  fudge!  (Laughing.}  Ha,  ha!  (Retires  up,  and 
groups  with  the  rest  about  the  table.} 

Rup.  Old  man,  a  word  :  say  you  there  are  spirits,  dwellers  beneath 
the  dark  waters  of  the  Rhine,  with  whom  the  young  and  brave  find 
favor,  and  bring  back  wealth  and  honor  ? 

Pil.     Ay,  master  ;  and  who  offer  tempting  booty  to  the  bold  whom 
fortune  leaves  upon  the  land. 
1* 


6  THE    NAIAD    QUEEN.  [ACT   I. 

Rup.  This  cannot  be  achieved.  The  sirens  famed  in  story  reck 
not  the  love  of  errant  knights,  whose  gallantry  hath  led  them  to 
their  wild  retreats,  to  kneel  in  admiration  at  their  lays.  Oft  lured  by 
these,  the  listening  mariner  forsakes  the  purpose  of  his  voyage ;  his 
cargoes  and  his  hopes  become  ingulfed  beneath  the  treacherous  eddies 
they  prepare. 

Pit.  You  err,  if  thus  you  would  arraign  the  gentler  Naiads  of 
the  limpid  Rhine,  who  nightly  leave  their  crystalline  abodes,  to  bask 
upon  the  moonlit  rocks  above.  I've  heard  my  grandsire  tell,  their 
melody,  far  off,  salutes  the  ears  of  voyagers,  who,  had  they  youth  and 
valor,  might  approach  and  compass  both  their  beauty  and  their  gold. 

Rup.     Thither  to-night  will  I  repair. 

Pil.     Be  not  too  rash  ;  hast  thou  the  firmness  to 

Hup.  Peace,  old  man  !  Who  questions  the  proud  daring  of  "  The 
Pearnought "  ?  This  night,  I  say !  Before  the  daystar  rises,  I  will 
moor  fast  to  the  Lurlei  Berg  my  nimble  skiff :  Lurline,  'tis  said,  long 
after  midnight,  holds  her  vigil  there.  To  her  will  I  prefer  my  love's 
complaint ;  and  let  my  guerdon  be  her  sweetest  song  and  smile,  or 
sadder  fate  !  Rupert  returns  this  castle's  richer  lord,  or  never  ! 

Pil.     There  spoke  the  spirit  of  the  "  The  Fearnought "  still ! 

Rup.  (Calling.}  Comrades!  (BAPTISTE  and  others  come  forward^ 
B.  and  L.)  I  leave  ye  for  a  month  ;  so  fill  a  bumper  —  pledge  to  my 
safe  return  !  Since  one  element  can  yield  no  more,  I  am  about  to  try 
the  beings  of  another.  I  may  perish  in  the  enterprise  —  I  may  not 
return ;  tarry  for  me,  therefore,  but  the  time  1  have  mentioned  :  if  ye 
then  see  me  not,  depart  in  peace.  Meanwhile,  ye  may  manage  to 
starve  on,  and,  if  the  worst  come  to  the  worst 

Omnes.     Well?  (Exit  PILGRIM,  n.  H.  1  E.) 

Rup.     (Jocosely.}     Ye  can  eat  one  another. 

Bap.  And  leave  our  heads  to  tell  the  tale  to  after  comers.  So, 
comrades,  pledge  we  to  brave  Sir  Rupert's  welcome  home. 

Omnes.     (Filling  and  drinking.}     Sir  Rupert's  welcome  home  ! 

Bap.  (To  RUPERT.)  Umph  !  Who  is  she  that  hath  so  cozened 
the  heiress  of  Lorchausen  of  her  chance  of  Rupert's  hand  ? 

Rup.     Well,  no  matter. 

Thou  know'st  her  father's  wealthy  —  proud  withal, 
While  I  am  still  the  poor  adventurer, 
That,  in  the  scale  of  fortune,  may  not  weigh 
My  lot  'gainst  hers.     Doubt  not  my  heart  is  sealed 
To  Lady  Una's,  though  now  on  its  way 
To  raise  a  mortgage  on  a  Rhenish  nymph ; 
Which,  ere  I  dare  to  press  my  former  suit, 
Must  be  effected.     So  content  ye. 

Bap.     (Drinking.}     As  you  list,  Sir  Knight. 

Rup.  (Musing.}  Stay :  above  the  rest,  I've  found  thee  ever 
faithful. 

Bap.     Who  ?  me,  master  ? 

Rup.  Ay;  give  me  thy  hand.  Thou  shalt  be  boon  companion  of 
my  venture,  Baptiste ;  thou  shalt  along  with  me.  (Shaking  his  hand.} 

Bap.  (Withdrawing  his  hand  coldly.}  You'll  excuse  me,  master. 
I  have  no  objection  to  engage  with  you  in  one,  two,  or  more  of  the 


SCENE   II.]  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  7 

elements  —  that  is,  I'll  stand  by  you  between  wind  and  water ;  but 
as  for  this  little  submarine  expedition  of  yours  —  this  little  aquatic 
flirtation  —  you  understand  me  —  this  diving  belle  amour,  I  have  a 
strange  presentiment  that  my  presence  —  that  is,  the  presence  of  any 
third  party  —  would  be  very  much  in  the  way  —  eh  ?  (Winking  his 
eye,  knowingly ;  the  rest  laugh  deridingly  at  him.*) 

Rup.  Now,  by  my  knighthood,  thou  art  no  true  esquire  !  I  had 
thought  on  a  way  to  serve  thee,  an  thou  hadst  sworn  thyself  my 
friend  ;  but  let  that  pass.  Gold  will  not  mate  with  a  churl. 

Bap.  Gold  !  and  a  churl !  Master,  you  have  wronged  me  —  very 
much  wronged  me.  Neither  of  those  are  adjectives  to  my  substantive. 
(Striking  his  breast.}  Of  the  former,  I  already  lack  quantum  sufficit ; 
and  of  the  latter,  I  think  I  can  say,  with  reason,  that  I  have  not  a 
drop  of  churl's  blood  in  my  veins.  (All  laugh.}  And,  to  prove  it, 
I  will  e'en  follow  you  to  the  bottom  of  Charybdis ;  though  I  must 
own  I  never,  by  my  valor,  till  now,  conceived  so  extraordinary  a  taste 
for  the  study  of  hydraulics. 

Rup.     'Tiswell.     (Calling.'}     Ho!  there. 

Enter  ATTENDANT,  R.  H.  1  E. 

Look  that  my  skiff  be  ready  at  the  postern ;  there  await  my  coming. 
(Exit  ATTENDANT,  R.  H.  1  E.)  And  now,  my  friends,  good  night. 

Bap.  Allow  me,  first,  a  parting  cup  to  the  pretty  Mistress  Bridget 
at  Lorchausen ;  then  have  with  you,  master.  (Filling  and  drinking  at 
table.  Exit  RUPERT,  R.  H.  1  E.  ;  all  come  forward ;  attendants  enter* 
K.  and  L.  2  E.,  and  quietly  clear  table  and  benches.} 

CHORUS. 

Then  drink,  drink,  drink, 

And  merrily  clink 
The  cups  that  cheer  each  heart ; 

Ay,  one  cheer  more 

We'll  add  to  the  score, 
Ere  we  shake  hands  and  part. 

(Exit  BAPTISTE,  R.  H.  1  E.,  RODOLPH  and  the  rest,  L.  H.  1  E.) 


SCENE  II.  —  A  Romantic  Prospect  on  the  Rhinet  5  G.  The  town  of 
St.  Goar,  with  its  mountainous  district,  in  the  distance ;  the  Lurlei 
Rocks  in  the  foreground,  R.  H.  and  L.  H.  ;  the  QUEEN  ascends  through 
waters  and  sits  on  the  Lurlei  Berg  in  the  moonlight,  R.  c. ;  the  dwarf, 
AMPHIBEO,  is  prostrasted  at  the  foot  of  the  rock,  L.  H.,  watching  the 
approach  of  strangers  ;  lights  half  down.  Music. 

SONG.  —  Queen. 

Silent  nymph,  with  silvery  wings, 

Hither  from  thy  bower  stray  : 
I  will  show  thee  choicest  things, 

Where  the  watery  moonbeams  play. 


8  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN.  [ACT    I. 

In  a  nautilus  we'll  glide 
O'er  the  cool  and  limpid  tide  ; 
From  whose  surface  fathoms  through 
Thou  my  crystal  halls  shall  view  ; 
Where,  through  the  groves  of  coral,  we 
Dance  to  Naiads'  minstrelsy. 

Dance,  dance,  dance,  dance, 
To  the  Naiads'  minstrelsy. 

(  Towards  the  end  of  the  song,  the  dwarf  looks  warily  over  the  water, 
and  makes  a  signal  to  the  QUEEN  of  the  approach  of  intruders*  and  then 
retreats  behind  the  rocks  on  L.  H.)  „. 

Enter   RUPERT   and  BAPTISTE,   R.  H.    2   E.  ;  they  advance   near  the 
Lurlei  Berg. 

JRnp.  (On  L.  H.)  My  ears  deceived  me  not:  that  way  the  voice 
descended,  and  stole  upon  my  ravished  senses  like  music  from  the 
spheres.  ( Observing  QUEEN  on  rock  in  waters  on  R.  H.)  Beautiful 
spirit,  nymph,  or  whatever  thou  art,  I  do  invoke  thee  !  —  Who  art 
thou.  ()  beautiful  maiden  r  and  whence  is  thine  art  r  Art  thou  a 
daughter  of  the  river  r  and  dost  thou  lure  us  to  destruction  ?  Why, 
be  it  so  !  Welcome  the  whirlpool,  if  it  entomb  me  in  thy  home. 

Queen.  Thou  art  bold,  young  mortal.  Wherefore  say  thy  tribe 
such  harsh  legends  of  my  song  ?  Who  ever  perished  by  my  art  ? 
Do  I  not  rather  allay  the  storm,  and  smooth  the  mirror  of  the  waves  ? 
Return  to  thy  home  safely  and  in  peace,  and  vindicate,  when  thou 
hearest  it  maligned,  the  name  of  the  Water  Spirit  of  the  Rhine. 

Rup.  Return  !  —  Never,  until  I  have  touched  thee  —  knelt  to 
thee  —  felt  that  thy  beauty  is  not  a  dream  !  Thou  art  as  woman,  yet 
more  lovely  than  the  fairest  of  earth's  bright  daughters.  Take  me  to 
thy  blue  caverns,  and  be  my  bride. 

SONG.  —  Queen. 

Ocean's  bed  sheds  odors  rare, 

Which  no  breath  of  air  hath  wasted  ; 
In  her  caves  are  viands  fair, 

That  no  mortal  lip  hath  tasted. 
Radiant  through  the  sunlit  water 

Many  a  tempting  pearl  there  be, 
Might  dazzle  the  heart  of  the  fairest  daughter, 

Sighing  on  land  for  the  gems  of  sea. 

About  our  throne, 

With  dulcet  tone, 
Sirens  wake  their  pearly  shells ; 

And  visions  bright 

Each  sense  delight, 
Roused  by  water  fairies'  spells. 
While,  through  groves  of  coral,  we 
Dance  to  the  Naiads'  minstrelsy. 

Dance,  dance,  dance,  dance, 
To  the  Naiads'  minstrelsy. 


SCENE  III.]  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN.  9 

(At  the  conclusion  of  the  song,  QUEEN  glides  gracefully  from  the 
rock  on  parallel,  and  disappears  beneath  the  waters.) 

Rup.  She  glides  away,  even  like  the  vision  from  the  sleeper  !  Bap- 
tiste ! 

Bap.     {Advancing,  R.  H.)     Here,  master. 

Rup.  Tarry  with  the  skiff  till  sunrise  ;  if  ye  then  see  me  not,  re- 
turn to  St.  Goar;  I  follow  yon  maiden's  track.  {Going.') 

Bap.  (Stopping  him.}  Hold,  master!  we  part  not  thus.  Con- 
sider fitly  what  a  perilous  voyage  you  undergo ;  think  what  a  master 
'tis  I  lose  —  think  what  a  squire  that  master  leaves  behind  ! 

Rup.  Unhand  me !  The  secrets  of  yon  dreaming  land  I  will  re- 
solve, or  perish  in  the  undertaking  !  I  follow  fate  and  fortune.  (Mu- 
sic. —  He  breaks  from  BAPTISTE,  rushes  to  the  summit  of  the  rock,  and 
dives  after  QUEEN.) 

Bap.  There's  another  knight-errant  lost  to  society  !  Now,  what 
an  extraordinary  —  a  most  extraordinary  predilection  my  master 
evinces  for  a  watery  grave !  What  a  pity,  for  the  sake  of  the  Lady 
Una,  as  well  as  all  the  other  ladies  in  the  Palatinate,  he  hadn't  been 
inoculated  with  the  hydrophobia  !  They  could  but  have  smothered 
him  in  dry  blankets  ;  when  now  he'll  as  surely  catch  his  death  of 
cold,  by  stepping  voluntarily  into  a  damp  bed.  (Looking  about.) 
Hallo!  what  has  become  of  the  skiff ?  (Music. — During  this  collo- 
quy, the  dwarf  emerges  from  the  rock,  goes  towards  the  skiff,  which  he 
sets  adrift,  then  strikes  a  grotesque  figure,  and  intercepts  BAPTISTE  in  his 
way  towards  it.  The  latter  appears  singularly  overtaken  with  fear ; 
and,  after  traversing  the  banks  with  grotesque  and  hurried  strides,  and 
whilst  the  dwarf  menaces  him,  he  rushes  off  hastily,  L.  H.  2  E. ;  the 
dwarf  laughs  hideously,  and  disappears  through  trap,  n.  H.) 


SCENE  III.  —  A  Cavern  on  the  Banks  of  the  Rhine,  1  G. 

Music.  —  Enter  BAPTISTE,  K.  n.  1  E.,  running  on  in  trepidation  —  after 
a  pause,  c.,  he  looks  back,  or  averts  his  head  with  anxiety,  to  find 
that  he  is  no  longer  pursued  by  AMPHIBEO.  Lights  down.) 

Bap.  (Recovering  himself.)  A  very  respectable,  queer- looking 
kind  of  a  personage,  the  little  gentleman  I  have  just  parted  with  !  A 
member  of  the  club  of  odd  fishes,  I  should  imagine.  By  the  way,  the 
air  of  these  caverns  is  not  very  favorable  to  rheumatism ;  and  I  know 
of  no  better  way  of  arming  the  outward  man  against  evil  spirits  than 
by  fortifying  the  inward  man  with  nothing  but  a  good  'un.  (  Taking 
afiask  of  brandy  from  his  jerkin.)  Come  forth,  my  bottle  imp  !  thou 
cordial  to  sore  places  and  blue  devils !  < « Beautiful  spirit,  I  invoke 
thee  !  "  as  my  master  says !  (Drinking.  Music,  four  bars.  —  The 
notes  of  a  flageolet  are  heard  to  a  wild  and  humorous  strain.)  Eh  ! 
what's  coming  now  ?  Fresh  arrivals  !  Ho  !  ho  !  Girt  thy  armor 
well  about  thy  loins,  good  Master  Baptiste.  Here's  to  ye  !  (Drink- 
ing. Music,  — first  wildly,  then  plaintively,  afterwards  briskly,  and 
with  humor ;  the  sounds  appear  to  recede  and  return  alternatety  at  R. 
and  L.,  and  from  above.  BAPTISTE  pauses,  puts  up  his  fiask,  traverses 


10  THE   NAIAD    QUEEN.  [ACT  I. 

backward  and  forward  in  pursuit  of  the  sound,  as  it  baffles  his  curi- 
osity ;  he  appears  suddenly  impressed  with  its  delusion,  then  laughs, 
and  settles  into  a  calm  or  delirium,  as  the  music  sinks  into  the  lower  notes  ; 
after  a  pause,  the  music  strikes  a  feic  rapid  bars  to  strains  of  a  wild 
and  incoherent  measure,  partaking  throughout  of  comic  humor.  BAP- 
TISTE  is  roused  from  his  apathy,  and  in  following  the  sound,  R.  H.,  is 
confronted. 

Enter  the  Naiad  IDEX,  R.  H.  1  E.,  playfully  dressed  as  a  dancing 
nymph,  and  wearing  a  flageolet  suspended  to  her  girdle.  She  startles 
on  seeing  BAPTISTE,  who  suddenly  retreats,  and  regards  her  with 
mixed  fear  and  admiration  ;  after  a  pause,  each  recovers  confidence 
—  IDEX  moves  playfully  about  BAPTISTS,  and  plays  several  variations 
on  the  flageolet ;  she  advances  and  recedes  coquettishly ,  to  which  he 
replies  by  nods,  icinks,  and  gestures,  of  amorous  portent ;  he  at  last 
engages  her  attention. 

Bap.  Truly,  miss,  I  am  more  than  delighted  to  have  fallen  upon 
so  agreeable  a  companion,  after  the  one  I  had  the  pleasure  of  scraping 
a  slight  acquaintance  with  a  few  minutes  ago. 

Idex.     Who  art  thou,  stranger,  and  whence  comest  thou  ? 

Bap.  Truly,  miss,  it  boots  little  to  inquire  whence  I  came,  who  I 
am,  or  how  I  got  hither.  I  came  over  the  water  in  company  with  my 
master,  who,  I  have  every  reason  to  believe,  is  just  now  in  company  of 
some  one  else,  who  lives  under  the  water  ;  and  as  I  feel  myself  in 
every  particular  like  a  fish  out  of  water  apart  from  him,  I  should  es- 
teem it  a  particular  favor  if  you  would  bring  me  some  tidings  of — or 
conduct  me  where  I  may  find  him. 

Idex.  Foolish  mortal !  why  dost  thou  roam  so  far  from  thy  tribe? 
Knowest  thou  the  haunt  of  the  Naiads  ?  It  is  here.  The  air  above 
thee  is  enchanted  ;  the  rock  thou  standest  on  is  fairy  ground,  and  we, 
the  dwellers,  are  immortal. 

Bap.  (Aside.)  Immortal !  I'll  accost  her  somewhat  in  the  fash- 
ion of  my  master. —  (To  IDEX.)  Beautiful  substance!  brightest  of 
spirits  !  —  that  is,  miss,  —  I  hope  no  offence  —  I  mean  not  the  slight- 
est allusion  to  the  one  which  I  carry  along  with  me  —  brightest  of 
immortal  spirits !  I've  a  pulse  now  throbbing  inside  of  me,  with  a 
passionate  conviction  that  my  good  breeding  has  already  found  favor 
in  those  eyes.  Hem ! 

Idex.  (Laughing.')  Ha,  ha,  ha  !  Now,  are  not  you  a  very  ven- 
turous mortal  ? 

Bap.  Who,  me?  venturous?  Bless  you  !  I'd  venture  all  for  the 
fair  sex,  especially  those  of  a  spiritual  persuasion.  ( Taking  out  the 
brandy  flask,  and  drinking.} 

Idex.  (Aside.)  How  prepossessing  and  engaging  is  his  bold  ad- 
dress !  Dare  I  trust  him  ?  or,  rather,  dare  I  trust  myself?  (Gazing 
upon  him,  while  he  is  ruminating  over  the  flask.}  He  certainly  is  hand- 
some ;  and,  out  of  mere  compassion  to  the  Naiads,  I  must  keep  him 
apart  from  the  rest.  (Calling  to  BAPTISTE.)  Handsome  mortal ! 

Bap.  (Surprised.)  Eh  !  me  ?  Miss,  did  you  speak  ?  Handsome ! 
You  were  observing  —  you  seem  impressed  with  my  outward  appear- 


SCENE   III.J  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  11 

ances  —  my  externals.  Bless  you,  I  am  a  thing  of  substance  —  noth- 
ing immortal  about  me  —  all  genuine  —  Flanders  bred  —  flesh  and 
blood  from  the  crown  of  my  head  to  the  sole  of  my  foot.  Look  at 
that,  miss  —  there's  a  leg  !  Show  me  the  mermaid  that's  got  such  a 
tail !  (He  is  slightly  inebriated.)  Ton  my  soul,  miss,  you  seem  to  be 
a  very  delectable,  social  sort  of  spirit.  Tell  me,  now,  how  do  the 
ladies  manage  to  kill  time  on  your  side  of  the  water  ? 

Idex.  To  know,  thou  must  follow  me ;  we  ne'er  reveal  the  secrets 
of  our  tribe  to  mortals  on  the  land. 

Bap.     You  sing  ? 

Idex.     'Tis  our  recreation. 

Bap.     Dance,  too  ? 

Idex.     All  day  and  night. 

Bap.  Any  thing  else  ?  any  sort  of  field-sport,  hunting,  or  horse 
exercise  ? 

Idex.  Sometimes  we  mount  the  hippopotamus,  and  chase  the 
ground-shark  homeward  to  his  lair. 

Bap.  {Aside.)  Very  pleasant,  that !  Fancy  me  floundering  in 
the  water  on  the  outside  of  a  hippopotamus  !  —  (To  IDEX.)  But, 
miss,  I  pray  you  now  conduct  me  where  I  may  find  my  master. 

Idex.     It  is  only  by  my  power  you  can  find  him. 

Bap.  (Aside.)  She's  an  ardent  spirit,  an  incorporeal  being,  as  it 
were,  distilled  out  of  the  flesh.  I  have  a  great  mind  to  put  her  to  the 
test  by  a  drop  from  the  flask ;  they  say  there's  sympathy  between 
souls.  I'll  make  a  compound  spirit  of  her.  —  (To  IDEX.)  Miss,  allow 
me  to  present  you  with  a  mouthful  of  my  elixir  —  no  ceremony  be- 
tween friends.  (Advancing  towards  her  with  the  flask.) 

Idex.  (Retreating.)  Courteous  stranger,  'tis  not  permitted  that 
our  race  shall  partake  of  the  viands  of  earth. 

Bap.  But  these  are  not  viands.  I  only  ask  you  to  drink  with  me ; 
try  it ;  you'll  find  it  quite  in  your  own  way. 

Idex.  (Advancing  coquettishly^  and  receiving  the  fl>ask.)  Ha  !  the 
spirits  of  water  mix  not  with  those  of  fire.  (Archly.)  Why  didst 
thou  tempt  me  ?  (She  is  about  to  cast  it  from  her,  but  is  arrested  by 
BAPTISTE,  an  involuntary  movement  on  his  part  bringing  them  in  col- 
lision.) 

Bap.  (Feeling  her  arms.)  Eh !  why,  this  is  substance,  flesh  and 
blood,  I  declare  !  Now,  do  you  know,  I  have  been  all  along  in  the 
dark  in  this  business  ;  I  took  you  for  a  thing  of  air. 

Idex.  Thou  knowest  I  am  of  the  water,  and  thither  I'm  return- 
ing to  my  sisterhood,  to  help  them  gather  crabs'  eyes. 

Bap.  Gather  crabs'  eyes !  what  a  recreation  !  Well,  but  there's 
no  particular  hurry  —  stay  a  little  longer.  —  (  Ogling  her.)  There  are 
other  eyes  worth  gathering,  as  well  as  crabs',  and  you  needn't  go  a 
great  way  to  find  'em. 

Idex.  (Aside.)  What  a  persevering  creature  it  is  !  I  feel  almost 
persuaded  to  make  him  the  companion  of  my  voyage.  —  (To  BAP- 
TISTE.) How  if  I  show  thee  the  Naiads  in  their  retreat,  and  bring 
thee  where  thou  shalt  see  thy  master  ? 

Bap.  Naiads  in  a  retreat !  what,  with  my  master?  Conduct  me 
—  I'm  your  man  !  Lord  !  I'm  such  a  devil,  and  can  beat  my  mas- 
ter hollow  at  singing  and  dancing. 


12  THE    NAIAD  QUEEN.  [ACT   I. 

Idex.     First,  I  must  lay  a  spell  upon  thee. 

Bap.  You'd  better  not  —  I'll  lay  my  spell  on  thee,  else.  (Music. 
—  She  moves  sportively  round  him,  and  endeavors  to  catch  him  in  a 
noose  of  golden  cord,  which  she  takes  from  her  girdle ;  he  evades  it  with 
amorous  humor,  but  at  last  receives  it  round  his  neck  ;  this  brings  them 
again  into  collision,  and,  encircling  her  waist,  he  kisses  her  smartly  on 
the  lips.}  That's  above  proof! 

Idex.  O,  fie,  fie,  fie !  Respect  the  morals  of  the  nymphs,  I  beg. 
(She  leads  him  by  the  end  of  the  cord  during  a  comic  duet  and  dance.} 

DTJET.  —  Idex  and  Baptiste. 

Idex.     Follow  me,  and  fear  no  danger  ; 

Come,  behold,  thou  gallant  stranger, 

How  we  pass  our  time  below. 
You  shall  dance  in  sun- lit  waters, 
Hand  in  hand  with  Neptune's  daughters, 
Where  the  fragrant  zephyrs  blow. 

Fal  de  ral  de  ral. 

Bap.     Lady,  you  so  fast  have  bound  me 

With  the  spell  you've  thrown  around  me, 

What  avails  it  ?     I  must  go. 
I'm  so  often  half  seas  over, 
I  dare  venture  under  cover, 

Where  the  saucy  winds  do  blow. 

Fal  de  ral  de  ral. 
(Exeunt,  singing  and  dancing,  L.  H.  1  E.) 


SCENE  IV.  —  Poetical  Delineation  of  the  Bottom  of  the  Rhine,  describ- 
ing a  Bath  or  Basin,  sheltered  by  Grotto  and  Coral  Work.  The 
scene  above  is  a  gauze  or  transparent  representation  of  still  water.  — 
A  picturesque  group  of  NAIADS  discovered  in  the  bath.  —  Music. 
The  NAIADS  leave  the  bath,  and  disport  on  the  margin,  alternately 
advancing  to  and  receding  from  the  front,  or  dance  to  a  chorus  ac- 
companiment.'} 

CHORUS   OF   SPIRITS.      (Within.} 

Ho  !  ho  !  ho  !  how  delightful  it  be 

To  dance  on  the  sands  in  the  depths  of  the  sea. 

O,  what  in  air 

With  the  sea  can  compare, 
Where  beauty,  and  riches,  and  freedom  abound  ? 

We  ne'er  wish  to  roam 

From  our  emerald  home, 

Whilst  the  globe  turns  merrily  with  us  round. 
Ho  !  ho  !  ho  !  &c. 

(Towards  the  end  of  the  Chorus,  QUEEN  and  RUPERT  appear,  glid- 
ing through  the  water  from  the  surface,  and  descend  to  the  margin  of 
the  bath.} 


•GENE  IT.]  THE    NAIAD    QUEEN.  13 


BALLET  OP  ACTION. 

FLUVIA  and  the  Naiads  group  in  picturesque  figures  about  the  per- 
son of  RUPERT,  approaching  and  retreating,  intimating  their  curiosity 
or  admiration.  QUEEN  advances  gracefully,  and  passionately  invites 
RUPERT  to  a  seat  constructed  in  a  grotto,  R.  H.  1  E.  Music.  —  The 
Naiads  dance,  and  afterwards  retire  into  and  about  the  bath.  RUPERT 
and  QUEEN  leave  the  grotto,  and  come  forward,  c. 

Hup.  Beautiful  creature  !  Say,  is  it  not  true  that  the  spirits  of 
thy  race  hoard  vast  treasures  of  gems  and  buried  gold  within  their 
caves  ?  Do  ye  not  gather  all  that  the  winds  and  tempests  have  sunk 
beneath  the  waves  in  your  rocky  coffers  ?  and  have  ye  not  the  power 
to  endow  a  mortal  with  the  forgotten  wealth  of  ages  ?  —  (Music. 
The  QUEEN  makes  action  in  the  affirmative,  but  with  signs  expresses  her 
indifference  to  their  possession,  compared  with  the  state  of  love.}  Thou 
sayest  true,  dearest ;  they  are,  indeed,  dull  and  useless,  where  true 
love  predominates  above  the  care  of  avarice.  But,  just  to  pass  away 
an  hour,  suppose  thou  showest  me  some  of  these  curiosities.  Certes, 
I  am  childishly  fond  of  inspecting  coins  and  jewels.  (The  dwarf, 
AMPHIBEO,  suddenly  appears  behind,  L.  H.  2  E.,  listens,  shakes  his 
clinched  hand  menacingly  at  RUPERT,  crosses,  and  exit,  R.  s.  E.  QUEEN 
expresses  assent,  but  informs  RUPERT  there  is  both  fear  and  danger  to 
encounter  in  gratifying  his  curiosity.} 

Rup.  My  sword  shall  repel  all  danger !  (Music.  —  QUEEN  inter- 
rupts him,  places  her  hand  on  the  hilt  of  his  sword,  commanding  his  for  ~ 
bearance,  and  points  to  the  silver  wand,  as  a  talisman  against  evil.  The 
Naids  advance ;  QUEEN  gracefully  invites  RUPERT  to  follow  her,  and 
conducts  him  off,  R.  H.  IE.  The  music  suddenly  changes  to  a  grotesque 
movement ;  the  Naiads  appear  startled,  and  retreat  hurriedly  to  the 
bath.  ID  EX  appears  above,  gliding  through  the  water,  leading  BAPTISTS 
by  the  golden  cord,  who  flounders  after  her  ;  she  alights  on  the  edge  of 
the  bath ;  BAPTISTE  descends  awkwardly,  and  tumbles  in  among  the 
Naiads,  who,  in  surprise,  leave  the  bath,  and  pirouette  forward,  joined 
by  IDEX,  laughing.  BAPTISTE  gets  out  of  the  bath,  shakes  his  headt 
arms,  and  legs,  as  if  to  dry  himself,  and  advances.} 

DUET  AND   CHORUS.  —  Idex,  Baptiste,  and  Naiads. 

Idex,  Fly  not,  sisters  —  fear  no  danger  ; 

Pray  allow  this  handsome  stranger 

To  sojourn  with  us  all  night. 
Bap.  Pity,  ladies,  my  disaster ; 

Pray  conduct  me  to  my  master,  — 

I'm  his  squire,  and  he's  a  knight. 
Idex.  Let  me  gaze  upon  his  charms. 

Naiads.  Ha  !  ha  !  ha  !  ha  ! 

Idex.  Let  me  rock  him  in  my  arms. 

Naiads.  Ha  !  ha  !  ha  !  ha  ! 

Idex  $  Nai.     Of  thy  praise  our  song  shall  be, 

While  we  thus  are  blessed  by  thee. 

2 


14  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  [ACT   I. 

Bap.  Of  thy  praise  my  song  should  be, 

Could  I  but  my  master  see. 

(The  Naiads  group  about  BAPTISTE,  handling  and  coquetting  with 
him ;  he  gambols  about  with  them  at  the  back  ;  FLUVIA  and  IDEX  ad- 
vance, c,) 

Flu.  Fie,  imprudent  Idex.  Where  didst  thou  find  yon  stranger  r 
How  if  I  run  and  call  my  mistress  ? 

Idex.  Hush  —  hush  !  There's  no  great  harm  done  as  yet.  The 
stranger  was  benighted  —  is  cold  and  hungry,  too.  (At  the  direction 
of  IDEX,  exeunt  FLUVIA  and  three  Naiads,  R.  and  L.  2  E.)  Besides, 
if  I  mistake  not,  your  mistress  is  already  closeted  with  just  such  anoth- 
er ;  she  cannot  choose  but  look  at  home,  and  perhaps  it  might  be  equal- 
ly as  agreeable  to  her,  as  well  as  to  us,  if  we  leave  all  parties  in  quiet 
possession  of  their  own  innocent  diversions.  Let  us  treat  him  courte- 
ously ;  who  knows  but  when  he  returns  to  his  race  that  he  may  not 
come  back  with  one  apiece  for  you  ?  (During  this  dialogue,  BAPTISTE 
and  the  Naiads  have  become  sociable  ;  they  conduct  him  to  the  front  — 
FLUVIA  and  three  Naiads  re&nter,  R.  and  L.  2  E.,  with  baskets  of  un- 
boiled shell-fish,  crabs,  and  lobsters,  which  they  present  to  him.) 

Bap.  (Refusing  them.)  Excuse  me,  ladies ;  not  at  present;  my 
stomach  just  now  is  in  rather  too  crude  a  state  to  partake  of  your  raw 
materials  —  you  understand  ;  the  crabs  are  a  little  too  fresh,  and  the 
lobsters  a  little  too  lively  —  not  exactly  the  right  color.  (  They  offer 
him  others.)  I'd  much  rather  be  excused  —  much  rather;  I  never 
could  abide  a  fresh  water  snail.  If  you'll  allow  me,  I'll  just  taste  a 
mouthful  out  of  the  bottle,  and  perhaps  I  might  be  able  to  relish  half 
a  dozen  oysters  before  I  retire  for  the  evening.  (Taking  out  his  flask.) 
Ladies,  will  you  permit  me  to  pass  it  round  ?  (They  express  dissent.) 
No  r  Then  I  will.  (Drinking.)  Bless  me,  how  prodigiously  cold  it 
strikes  !  I  presume,  ladies,  you  haven't  such  a  thing  as  a  dry  shirt 
among  you  ?  But  what  d'ye  say  for  a  dance  ?  You're  partial  to 
dancing,  I  believe ;  it  gives  one  a  sort  of  glow,  like,  especially  after 
bathing.  (Pointing  to  IDEX.)  Ask  miss  there  what  she  thought  of  my 
leg,  when  I  struck  out  through  the  water  so.  (Imitating  the  motion 
of  swimming.) 

A  DANCE  AND  CHORUS  by  Naiads  and  Spirits. 
Chorus.     Ho  !  ho  !  ho  !  how  delightful  it  be 

To  dance  on  the  sands  in  the  depths  of  the  sea ! 
O,  what  in  the  air 
With  the  sea  can  compare, 

Where  beauty,  and  riches,  and  freedom  abound  ? 
We  ne'er  wish  to  roam 
From  our  emerald  home, 

Whilst  the  globe  turns  merrily  with  us  round. 
Ho  !  ho  !  ho  !  &c. 

(The  dance  changes  to  a  comic  roundelay,  BAPTISTE  in  the  middle ; 
the  movements  of  the  latter  become  boisterous,  and  on  reaching  the  bath, 
he  falls  into  it  backwards,  the  Naiads  pressing  round  him  with  noisy 
merriment  and  laughter.  —  Tableau.  —  Quick  Drop. 

END   OP  ACT   I. 


SCENE    I.]  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN.  15 


ACT  II. 

SCENE  I.  —  A  dark  submarine  Cavern,  1  and  2  E.  Massive  brazen 
portals  of  the  Adamantine  Chamber ;  the  heads  and  tails  of  sea- 
monsters  interspersed,  with  hieroglyphical  symbols  painted  thereon  ; 
wild  and  extravagant  music  ;  a  noise  above,  as  of  a  whirlpool,  (the 
Geurni,  on  the  Rhine,  near  the  rocks  of  Lurlei,}  or  of  the  roar  of 
monsters. 

Enter  Mermen,  or  River  Deities,  hideously  masked  and  attired,  in  tu- 
multuous or  boisterous  merriment,  and  bearing  clubs,  R.  and  L. 

CHORUS.  —  Monsters. 

Hand  in  hand,  to  the  moon-lit  strand 

The  water  fays  repair ; 
In  revel  rout  they  go  about, 

While  we  keep  vigil  here. 
Or  gayly  they  glide  through  the  silvery  tide 

To  the  golden  sands  below  ; 
Nor  reck  what  cheer  they  leave  us  here, 

While  we  dance  and  sing,  Ho  !  ho  ! 

A  DANCE. 
Gong  sounds,  L.  H.  ;  the  demons  all  retreat  to  R.  H.  in  groups.  —  Tableau. 

Enter  AMPHIBEO,  rushing  on  L.  H.  1  E.  ;  he  strikes  with  his  foot,  and 
appears  in  utter  despair. 

Amp.  Lost !  lost !  lost !  (Music.  The  MONSTERS  elevate  their  clubs, 
and  arrange,  themselves  in  postures  of  defence  —  AMPHIBEO  informs 
them  by  signs,  that  a  mortal  has  cunningly  engaged  the  affections  and 
confidence  of  the  QUEEN,  and  is  now  on  his  way  to  the  cavern,  to  despoil 
them  of  a  portion  of  the  hidden  treasures.} 

Mon.     (Menacing  with  their  clubs,  on  R.  H.)     Will  he  dare? 

Enter  the  QUEEN,  conducting  RUPERT,  L.  H.  1  E.  The  MONSTERS  ap- 
proach threateningly,  but  are  awed  by  the  presence  of  the  QUEEN,  who 
waves  her  wand  for  them  to  retire,  and  they  exeunt  sullenly,  with  AM- 
PHIBEO, R.  H.  1  E.  —  Music.  The  QUEEN  places  her  finger  on  her 
lipst  expressive  of  silence  ;  she  approaches  the  portals,  and  strikes 
with  her  wand ;  the  music  plays  wildly  and  tremulously. 

CHORUS  OF  SPIRITS.     (Above.} 

Ye  spirits  of  the  mighty  Rhine,  unbar  — 
Obey  the  signal  of  the  mystic  star  ! 

(The  portals  in  c.  fly  open  to  a  dark  fiat  at  the  sound  of  a  gong,  and 
with  a  crushing  noise ;  the  cavern  appears  suddenly  illuminated ; 
RUPERT  approaches  to  the  side  of  the  QUEEN,  who  fetches  from  where 


16  THE   NAIAD    QUEEN.  [ACT   II. 

they  are  deposited  alternately  a  casket  or  gold  relic,  kisses  it  passionately, 
and  presents  it  to  RUPERT,  then  pirouettes  away  without  allowing  him 
to  receive  it,  and  returning  with  another,  makes  similar  instances  of  her 
regard  ;  she  also  brings  from  the  niche  a  jewelled  order,  suspended  by  a 
golden  chain,  and  invests  him  with  it.  The  admiration  of  RUPERT  is 
divided  between  the  riches  of  the  cavern  and  the  playful  fondness  of  the 
nymph ;  then  suddenly  recollecting  his  mission,  he  courteously  tenders 
his  hand  to  the  QUEEN,  and  conducts  her  forward,  c.) 

Rup.  Bewitching  siren!  I  would  I  might  persuade  thee  to  ac- 
company me  to  the  land  !  Thou  knowest  not  how  delightful  it  is  to 
roam  the  mistress  of  a  castellated  dwelling  on  the  earth.  But  ah  !  I 
had  forgotten  that  I  am  a  poor  and  mortgaged  knight.  Shall  I  not 
first  repair  to  the  land,  and  take  with  me  some  of  the  bawbles  that  are 
here  hoarded  in  idleness,  to  refit  my  castle  in  yonder  vine-clad  moun- 
tains ?  (  The  QUEEN  points  figuratively  with  her  finger  in  an  expression 
of  distrust,  and  smiles  archly,  then  pirouettes  playfully  round  him 
during  the  symphony  of  the  following  song. 

SONG.  —  Queen. 

Lira  la  la !  lira  la  la  ! 
On  a  day,  a  summer's  day, 

A  wily  shark  would  rove, 
Where  a  seamaid  tuned  her  lay 

To  some  old  tale  of  love. 
This  shark  he  was  all  debonaire ; 

"  Ha,  ha !  "  quoth  he  ;  "  I  ween, 
Never  was  beauty  seen  so  rare 

All  in  the  sea  so  green." 

Lira  la  la!  (Waltzes.') 

"  Enough,"  he  cried :  "  you  sing  divine ; 

And  while  your  notes  impart 
A  feast  unto  my  ears,  I'll  dine 

Upon  your  hand  and  heart." 
And  so  he  did  :  this  silly  maid, 

I  fear  me,  is  Lurline, 
And  you  the  wily  shark  that  strayed 

All  in  the  sea  so  green. 

Lira  la  la  !  (Waltzes.) 

Rup.  Hither  within  a  month  will  I  return,  and  be  prepared  to 
wed  thee  with  all  the  pomp  thy  station  looks  for.  (Drawing  his  ra- 
pier.) This  bright  Damascus  steel  shall  be  the  emblem  of  my  purity, 
and  whilst  I  cast  it  at  thy  feet,  do  swear  thereon  eternal  constancy. 
(Laying  down  his  sword.) 

Queen.  Yet  ere  we  part,  receive  the  fealty  of  thy  subjects,  for  such 
are  those  who  call  me  queen.  (Music.  She  waves  her  hand,  the  gong 
sounds,  and-  the  scene  changes.) 


SCENE   I.]  THE   NAIAD    QUEEN.  17 

SCENE  II.  -^  A  Stalactitic  Hall  in  6  G.      The  Nymphs  discovered  in 
groups,  on  R.  and  L. 

Queen.  Follow  her  example,  ye  spirits  who  confess  my  power,  arid 
hail  Rupert  as  your  prince.  (Music.  All  the  nymphs  kneel.'} 

Rup.     (Going.}     Farewell,  beloved  of  my  heart. 

Queen.  First,  witness  the  fete  prepared  to  celebrate  their  fealty. 
(Music.  She  leads  RUPERT  to  a  seat,  R.  H.  IE.) 

A  SCARF  DANCE.     {By  the  Nymphs.) 

Enter  BAPTISTE,  L.  H.  2  E.,  loaded  with  baskets  of  gold,  8$c.,  followed 
by  IDEX. 

GENERAL   TABLEAU.  —  WHITE  FIRE. 
Quick  Drop. 

END   OF  ACT   II. 


ACT  III. 

SCENE  I.  —  The  Hall  of  Banquet  in  the  Castle  of  Lorchausen,  in  4 
G.  Three  Gothic  chairs  in  c.  3  G.  ;  banquet ;  tables  on  R.  and  L.  ; 
the  BARON  OF  LORCHAUSEN,  SIR  RUPERT,  and  LADY  UNA  seated  in 
chairs  up  c. ;  RINALDO  and  SIR  RUPERT'S  followers ;  BAPTISTE, 
knights,  guests,  gentlewomen,  seneschal,  and  attendants  discovered  on, 
R.  and  L.  H.  Music. 

Bap.  (Apart,  advancing  to  c.)  Rare  doings  in  the  old  castle  ! 
An  there  be  many  more  such  days  of  feasting  and  mumming,  I  am 
afraid  the  future  heir  of  Lorchausen  may  chance  dine  upon  short  com- 
mons. Now,  if  my  old  acquaintance,  Phibe — what's  his  name?  — 
should  be  eavesdropping  about  the  building,  he  may  carry  home  news 
that  shall  spoil  her  singing  for  twelve  moons  to  come.  My  little  Am- 
phitrite,  too  —  what  a  house-warming  she  has  promised  to  give  me 
on  the  thirty-first  of  the  month  !  Certes,  in  that  particular,  there's 
much  room  for  improvement ;  a  more  suspicious  house  of  call  there 
can't  be  for  travellers,  who  are  tenacious  of  sheets  that  are  well  aired. 
Catch  an  ague  at  the  bottom  of  the  Rhine,  you  must  go  to  the  devil 
and  shake  yourself ! 

Enter  ATTENDANT,  L.  H.  1  E.,  bearing  a  goblet  and  ewer  upon  a  salver. 

Halloo,  sirrah  !  not  so  fast,  I  beseech  you. 
Att.     'Tis  for  the  knight's  table. 
2* 


18  THE    NAIAD   QUEEX.  [ACT   III. 

Bap.  (Pouring  wine  into  the  goblet,  and  taking  it  from  the  salver.} 
Why,  then,  it  must  go  through  the  squire.  (Drinks,  and  returns  the 
cup.} 

Bar.  What,  seneschal !  I  pray  you  be  not  lenten  of  the  wine ; 
let  music  wait  upon  festivity.  —  (To  RUPERT,  coming  down  c.  with  SIR 
RUPERT  and  LADY  UNA.)  Give  me  thy  hand,  Sir  Knight ;  my  long 
esteem  no  act  or  word  can  better  illustrate  than  here  upon  its  own 
ancestral  hearth.  The  flower  I  have  loved  —  have  cultured,  reared, 
nursed  in  the  sunshine  of  generic  pride,  to  gather  in  the  fulness  of  its 
sweets,  and  plant  it  thus !  ( Uniting  the  hands  of  RUPERT  and  the 
LADY  UNA.) 

Rup.     (L.  H.)     There  may  it  bloom, 

Rich  in  its  plenitude  of  virtuous  love  ! 

I  ask  no  fairer  dower. 

Bar.     Fill  me  some  wine  ! 

(Attendant  brings  down  salver  with  wine  to  BARON.) 

Now  may  the  stars  propitious  aspect  show, 

That  no  ill  fortune  mar  your  wedded  state  ! 

(Drinks.  —  Storm  without.} 

Music.     Enter  a  SERF,  L.  H.  1  E. 

Serf.  (All  rise  at  tables.)  The  waters  fast  are  rising,  and  in  rage 
propel  their  angry  surges  to  the  banks ;  dark  threatening  clouds  are 
driving  from  the  west ;  and  birds  fly  screaming  to  their  eyries,  scared 
by  the  distant  thunder.  (Distant  sound  of  thunder  —  a  faint  crash  is 
heard  without,  R.  H.  IE.) 

Enter  a  MESSENGER,  R.  H.  1  E. 

Mes.  A  lightning  bolt  hath  fallen  on  the  keep,  and  struck  the 
banner  from  the  trembling  walls. 

Rup.  (Aside.)  The  spirits  of  the  waters  do  go  forth  to  mock  my 
triumph.  (The  storm  continues.) 

Bar.  These  tidings  ill  accord  with  gayety.  Let  us  in  to  prayer. 
(Music.  The  guests  move  in  consternation,  and  exeunt  R.  and  L.  H. 
The  BARON  exits,  R.  H.,  followed  by  RUPERT,  leading  the  LADY  UNA.) 

SCENE  II.  —  Gothic  Antechamber  in  the  Castle,  1  E.  —  a  large, 
transparent  oriel  window,  C.  P.  Storm  increases;  thunder  and 
lightning. 

Enter  BAPTISTE,  R.  H.  1  E.,  followed  by  several  of  the  BARON'S  male 
domestics. 

Bap.  Well,  well  ;  now  are  you  sure  every  thing  is  in  a  state  of 
forwardness  for  the  morrow  ?  the  hampers  packed,  the  wines  labelled, 
the  water  filtered  ? 

Dom.     All  is  ready  —  every  thing  is  ordered.     (  Thunder.) 

Bap.    Here's  a  rumpus  !  a  pretty  commence,  to  be  sure,  for  the 


SCENE    II.]  THE    NAIAD    QUEEN.  19 

lady's  nuptials  !  —  The  moon  at  the  full,  the  waters  rising,  and  a 
storm  brewing  !  (Thunder  and  lightning;  the  domestics  advance  for- 
ward in  alarm.}  Well,  blockheads !  what  is  there  to  quake  at  ?  Not 
one  of  you,  I'll  swear,  has  the  courage  of  a  dormouse :  ye  have  the 
hearts  and  livers  of  rabbits,  with  maws  as  rapacious  as  cormorants. 
I'll  wager  a  holiday  suit  that  each  at  a  push  could  magnify  a  mite 
into  a  white  elephant.  (Taking  out  a  flask.}  Here,  line  each  of 
you  his  jerkin  with  this  elixir.  (They  pass  the  flask  round  and  return 
it  to  BAPTISTE.)  Ha  !  this  is  Nantz  —  nothing  like  Nantz  for  giving 
the  valor  a  rouse.  (Looking  off,  L.  H.)  O,  here  comes  the  pretty 
Mrs.  Bridget,  terrifying  the  maids,  as  usual,  with  legends  of  the 
Hartz'  skeleton-huntsmen,  and  the  like  trumpery.  (Drinking.} 

Enter  BRIDGET,  L.  is..,  followed  by  female  domestics. 

Bri.  Heyday  !  Mr.  Baptiste,  is  this  a  season,  think  you,  for  your 
profane  bacchanals,  while  the  spirits  of  darkness  are  abroad,  and 
leagued  with  the  elements  to  do  us  mischief  ?  —  (To  the  male  domes- 
tics.} And  you,  borachios  that  ye  are,  know  ye  not  that  my  lady  has 
retired  to  the  oratory,  and  that  the  company  are  seeking  their  dor- 
mitories, and (Exeunt  male  domestics,  L.  H.  1  E.) 

Bap.  Be  composed,  Mrs.  B.  What  need  of  flurrying  the  ladies, 
bless  'em !  or  that  comfortable-looking,  sleek  little  rotundity  of  yours  ? 

Bri.     (Angrily.)     My  rotundity,  Mr.  Baptiste  ! 

Bap.  Now,  do  not —  don't,  Mrs.  B. :  nature  never  intended  that 
comely  little  body  to  do  the  office  of  a  chafing  pan.  (The  female 
domestics  group  near  the  window,  c.  F.)  Apropos,  Mrs.  B.,  I  had  a 
most  beautiful  bird's  eye  view  of  a  cold  turkey  in  your  buttery  this 
morning,  and,  looking  at  a  leg,  I  sighed,  and  thought  of  you. 

Bri.     Of  me,  Mr.  Baptiste  ? 

Bap.  Yes  ;  you  know  I  always  said  you  were  a  capital  one  at  a 
grill.  I'll  stake  the  long  odds  against  any  one,  I  said,  I  don't  care 
who  it  is,  but  give  me  Mrs.  Bridget  for  grilling  the  leg  of  a  turkey. 
Now,  what  d'ye  say,  Mrs.  B.,  to  a  nice  little  bit  of  something  hot  in 
your  own  room,  as  soon  as  the  girls  are  in  bed,  and  the  rest  of  the 
house  quiet  ? 

Bri.  La,  Mr.  Baptiste!  how  much  you  remind  me  of  my  poor 
little  departed  old  man,  who  was  always  so  particularly  partial  to  a 
nice  little  bit  of  something  hot  just  when  going  to  bed.  (Laughing.} 
Ha,  ha,  ha  ! 

Bap.  (Looking  significantly.)  Well,  that's  my  case,  you  see :  I 
have  long,  very  long,  Mrs.  B.,  conceived  a  most  masculine  predilec- 
tion to  fill  that  snug  little  vacancy  occasioned  by  the  demise  of  your 
poor  little  departed  dear  old  man. 

Bri.  Fie,  Mr.  Baptiste!  you  should  not  handle  such  a  delicate 
subject  in  so  boisterous  a  manner. 

Bap.  "Well,  I  know  it,  Mrs.  B.,  I  know  it's  a  very  delicate  subject ; 
but  you'll  promise  to  give  it  your  attention. 

Bri.  Hem  !  I  will  give  it  as  much  attention  as  the  delicacy  of 
my  situation  will  permit.  (Thunder  and  lightning.)  Holy  St. 
Werner  !  what  a  bolt  was  there  !  (The  female  domestics  come  forward 
in  great  alarm.) 


20  THE    NAIAD   QUEEX.  [ACT    III. 

Bap.  Pooh !  that's  nothing.  Bibendo  te,  I  exorcise  thee. 
(Drinking.} 

Bri.  Fie  !  this  is  no  time  for  bantering  :  recollect  the  mystery  of 
the  Black  Bohemian,  whom  Sir  Hildebrand  encountered  in  the 
Schwartz  Wald. 

Bap.  Pshaw  !  an  old  tradition  of  the  barony,  as  worn  out  and 
threadbare  as  Sir  Hildebrand' s  winding  sheet. 

Bri.  Listen  to  me,  girls.  It  was  the  close  of  a  great  confedera- 
tion or  meeting  of  the  states  at  Vienna ;  and  Sir  Hildebrand,  attended 
only  by  a  single  follower,  had  set  out  on  his  return  hither.  The  au- 
tumn was  past,  the  evening  had  set  in,  and,  it  being  the  vigil  of  the 
blessed  martyr,  Sir  Hildebrand  was  anxious  to  arrive  at  the  chateau  of 
his  cousin,  the  Margrave  of —  (Patience  !  such  a  memory  !  Well, 
no  matter)  —  whose  territories  are  skirted  by  the  Schwartz  Wald,  or 
by  some  called  the  Black  Forest  of  Bohemia. 

Bap.  (Impatiently.}  Ah,  there,  now,  Mrs.  B. — 'tis  all  the  same. 
(Drinking  from  the  flask.}  Pray  come  to  the  sequel.  (Lightning  — 
noise  of  wind  and  rain.) 

Bri.  Sancte  !  —  How  awfully  that  casement  shakes  !  (  The  wo- 
men, alarmed,  draw  close  about  her,  and  look  obliquely  towards  the  win- 
dow, c.  F.)  Presently,  on  nearing  an  angle  of  the  road,  where  a  small 
glade  opened  into  the  forest,  a  tall,  gaunt  figure,  armed  from  toe  to 
helm  piece,  and  mounted  on  a  black  charger,  emerged  from  the 
thicket,  or  rather,  I  should  have  said,  appeared  to  grow  out  of  the 
earth,  obstructing  his  further  progress,  while  its  fiend-like  eyes  (for 
they  were  not  human)  glared  fearfully  upon  him.  (Music.  A  thun- 
derbolt passes  the  window,  c.  F.  ;  a  mysterious  light  is  seen  through  the 
casement,  where  the  figure  of  the  dwarf,  AMPHIBEO,  appears  singularly 
magnified;  the  women  scream,  and  run  off,  L.  H.  ;  the  light  and  the 
figure  disappear.} 

Bap.  (Laughing,  and  looking  off  after  them,  not  having  observed  the 
figure.}  Ha,  ha,  ha  !  —  I  knew  how  it  would  be  with  the  ladies  —  a 
start  to  the  bed  posts  !  I  wonder  what  Bridget  would  have  thought 
of  my  old  acquaintance,  Phibby  ?  (Music.  The  dwarf,  AMPHIBEO, 
ascends  through  trap,  9.,  and  squats  in  a  grotesque  figure  behind  him.} 
By  the  by,  Master  Phibby,  better  not  let  me  catch  you  on  the  wrong 
side  of  your  favorite  watering  place  any  time  within  the  next  full  of 
the  moon !  By  the  hand  of  an  esquire,  but  I  promise  you  shall  go 
home  to  your  beautiful  cousins  with  as  elegant  a  specimen  of  watery 
head  as  ever  fell  to  the  share  of  a  dwarfs  knowledge  box  !  (Music. 
Snatching  out  his  flask  and  drinking  ;  turning  gradually  round,  he  is 
confronted  by  AMPHIBEO  ;  he  gazes  doubtfully  at  the  apparition,  drops 
the  flask,  and,  with  a  convulsed  and  ludicrous  movement,  runs  off,  L.  H.  ; 
the  dwarf  descends,  c.,  through  trap.} 


SCENE   IH.j  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN.  21 


SCENE  III.  —  The  QUEEN'S  Crystal  Chamber  beneath  the  Rhine,  4  G. 
The  QUEEN  discovered  reclining  on  a  rude  marine  couch,  L.  H.  ; 
FLUVIA,  IDEX,  and  the  rest  of  the  Naiads  ministering  to  her. 
Mttsic.  The  QUEEN  is  inconsolable  for  the  continued  absence  of  SIB 
RUPERT  ;  she  refuses  the  condolence  of  the  nymphs,  who  move  about 
her  figuratively  of  grief  and  sympathy  ;  they  present  her  bouquets  and 
marine  garlands  ;  she  waves  her  hand  in  token  of  indifference. 

Queen.     Again  the  sun  hath  passed  the  glowing  west ; 
The  compact  earth,  the  fluid  ambient, 
And  all  that's  dark  or  bright  'twixt  this  and  heaven, 
His  beams  have  cheered.     Day  turns  again  to  night, 
And  night  to  morn ;  yet  still  the  blushing  east 
Unseals  her  blue  eyes,  like  a  happy  bride, 
To  meet  the  unchanging  visit  of  her  lord. 
But,  ah !  not  Rupert  comes  —  not  Rupert  cheers ! 

{Rising,  and  coming  forward,  c.) 

Hast  thou  forgotten,  Idex,  the  old  melody  I  taught  thee  to  play  and 
sing  one  summer's  eve,  upon  the  Lurlei  Berg  ? 

Idex.  No,  gentle  mistress  ;  'twas  a  lay  of  love,  so  sad,  and  yet  so 
passionately  framed,  I  never  could  forget. 

Queen.  (To  FLUVIA.)  Hie  thee,  Fluvia,  to  yon  coral  dell,  where 
water  fays  delight  to  chase  the  beams  that  fall  from  Cynthia's  lamp : 
if  aught  thou  see  of  one  for  whom  thy  gentle  lady  mourns,  strike  on 
thy  shell,  and  give  it  life  again.  (Exit  FLUVIA,  B.  H.  2  E.,  bearing  a 
shell  strung  as  a  lute;  the  QUEEN  retires  to  the  couch,  L.  H.  ;  the 
nymphs  minister  to  her  with  small  silvery  lutes,  which  they  take  from 
their  girdles.) 

SONG.  —  Idex. 

Strike  that  melody  again, 

On  those  silvery  chords ; 
There  was  language  in  the  strain 

Never  breathed  in  words. 

Like  some  spell  each  cadence  fell, 

Waking  up  the  past : 
Who  would  roam  from  fancy's  home, 

Could  such  visions  last  ? 

CHOBUS.  —  Spirits.     (Without.)     Adagio. 

Though  his  vows  fail  thee, 

Tears  nought  avail  thee,  — 
Hope  hath  departed,  thou  spirit  forlorn  ! 

Tears  come  with  sadness, 

As  smiles  with  gladness, 
But  the  false-hearted  will  never  return. 

Chorus.  Never  —  never  will  return  ! 


22  THE   NAIAD   QUEEN.  [ACT  III. 

(FLUVIA  strikes  on  the  shell,  without,  R.  H.  1  E.  ;  the  QUEEN  rise* 
with  an  expression  of  delight,  and  moves  gracefully  forward,  with  an 
air  of  expectation*  Music.} 

Eefinter  FLUVIA,  in  great  consternation,  R.  H.  ;  she  directs  the  attention 
of  the  QUEEN  towards  AMFHIBEO,  who  enters,  R.  H.,  and  kneels  to 
the  QUEEN. 

Am.     List,  and  weep  not,  mistress  mine, 
Spirit  of  the  mighty  Rhine. 
We  have  traversed  far  above, 
To  bring  back  thy  errant  love ; 
Found,  alas  !  within  the  hour, 
Lingering  near  a  maiden's  bower  ; 
Where,  already,  hath  his  heart 
Been  exchanged  for  no  small  part 
Of  that  vestal  one  of  hers, 
Which  to  thine  his  soul  prefers. 

(  The  QUEEN  appears  moved  and  indignant.} 
That  the  spell  may  firmer  hold, 
He  hath  forged  a  ring  of  gold, 
On  that  ringer  fair  to  bind, 
Where  the  blood  doth  nearest  find 
Its  way  backward  to  the  fount, 
Where  the  stream  of  life  doth  mount. 

(Music.  The  QUEEN  seems  disconsolate  and  forlorn;  the  nymph* 
minister  to  her.} 

Cheer  thee,  mistress  —  droop  not  so ; 
There  is  med'cine  for  thy  woe  : 
Yet  a  day  and  yet  a  morrow, 
All  his  joy  shall  turn  to  sorrow. 

(Music.  QUEEN,  after  a  pause,  expressive  of  extreme  mental  suffer- 
ing, dashes  her  hands  from  her  forehead  despairingly,  and  assumes  an 
attitude  of  passion  or  revenge.} 

Queen.     (To  the  dwarf .}     The  deadliest  weed 
That  grows  upon  the  corsair's  grave, 
No  med'cine  to  forsaken  love  can  yield, 
As  thou  dost  minister  ;  for  in  thy  gall, 
The  ravenous  harpy  and  the  fell  sea  wolf 
Have  mixed  their  appetites.     Now,  get  thee  gone, 
And  levy  straight  a  race  of  armed  giants 
From  the  black  waters  of  the  dismal  Gewirre  ; 
What  time  the  golden  hours  lead  on  the  day, 
Have  them  arrayed  in  burnished  panoply  of  dragon's  scale, 
All  proof  as  adamant ;  then««guide  them  forth. 
Thy  subtle  spells  employ  :  (crosses  to  R.  H.) 
Behold  !  I  give  thee  power  to  destroy  ! 

(Music.  AMPIIIBEO  descends,  L.  H.  ;  music  changes ;  the  nymphs 
minister  to  QUEEN  with  their  lutes.} 

No  more  —  no  more  !     Those  silvery  tones  have  changed  ; 
All  else  shall  fail  to  please,  save  Rupert's  knell, 
And  that  shall  ring  on  every  pearly  shell. 


SCENE    III.]  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  23 

Let  each  assume  the  habiliments  of  war,  — 
War  I  proclaim  throughout  our  mighty  Rhine  ! 
Awake,  ye  wondering  echoes  in  your  caves  ! 
Hear  and  applaud  my  vengeance  !     This  shall  be 
Adjusted  with  the  rising  of  the  sun ; 
Your  queen  will  steel  her  heart,  and  see  it  done  ! 

(Music.  Exeunt  QUEEN  and  all  the  nymphs,  except  IDEX,  R.  and  L.) 
Idex.  Woe  is  me  !  that  ever  Naiad  should  be  crossed  as  I  have  been 
in  my  first,  my  only  love  !  O  Baptiste !  Baptiste  !  thou  must  surely 
have  dropped  from  the  moon  ;  thy  constancy  could  never  else  change 
sides  thus  —  month  about !  I  wish  I  could  bear  with  my  misfortune 
as  easily  as  my  mistress.  Poor  lady  !  she  chides  me  for  weeping. 
"  Happy  Idex,"  says  she,  "  dry  those  salt  tears  ;  you  only  have  had 
one  coffer  rifled ;  but  I,  alas  !  had  two."  I  wish  he  had  rifled  any 
body's  else  but  mine  !  My  precious  heart  is  almost  changed  to  a  car- 
buncle :  I  have  watered  it  all  day  with  my  tears,  and,  before  morning, 
it  will  cease  to  be  any  thing  save  a  crystal  petrifaction  —  a  still  mon- 
ument of  slighted  love,  frozen  to  death  in  a  river. 

SONG.  —  Idex. 

Like  the  vision  from  the  sleeper, 

Like  the  opening  of  the  day,  — 
Like  the  tear-drop  from  the  weeper. 

Love  doth  ever  pass  away. 

But,  like  silent,  rooted  sorrow, 

That  doth  blight  and  sear  the  heart, 

Or  like  hope,  renewed  each  morrow, 
Plighted  love  should  ne'er  depart. 

(A  trumpet  sounds,  L.  H.  u.  E.) 

Hark  !  those  dreadful  sounds  give  note  of  preparation.  (Looking  off, 
L.)  Silly  Naiads !  ye  know  not  what  ye  do.  O  !  these  wars,  or, 
rather,  O  !  these  men  !  Me,  too,  me,  who  never  had  courage  to  con- 
front the  beard  of  an  oyster  —  me  they  must  case  in  coat  of  armor  of 
proof !  I  wish  my  heart  had  been  but  half  as  proof  against  yon 
'squire  and  his  flattering  tale  :  he  never  had  returned  to  laugh,  as  he 
now  does,  at  the  poor  silly  maid  of  the  Rhine.  But  no  matter  :  I 
have  another  tale  in  store  for  him  —  one  that  won't  flatter,  either  —  a 
tale  of  the  sea ;  and  if  I  don't  furnish  him,  when  next  we  meet,  with 
as  moving  a  subject  as  heart  can  wish  for,  never  call  me  funny  Idex 
again.  (Exit,  laughing,  R.  H.  March.) 

Reenter  the  Naiads,  in  full  armor,  u.  E.  L.  H.,  led  by  FLUVIA  ;  they 
dress,  and  form  two  columns ;  flourish;  re&nter  QUEEN,  R.  H.  u.  E., 
in  a  full  suit  of  armor  ;  she  traverses  between  the  two  columns,  and 
takes  her  post  in  the  centre. 

Queen.     O,  bravely,  spirits,  bravely  do  ye  shine, 
Like  starlight  glistening  on  our  native  Rhine  ! 


24  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  [ACT   III. 

Each  look  a  death  —  a  javelin  every  eye  ; 

A  bright  allure  to  gaze  upon,  and  die  ! 

Alas  !     Love's  weapons  only  —  these  are  mine ! 

(Music.     Warlike  accoutrements  of  swords  and  bucklers,  racked  in 
order,  ascend  through  trap  in  c.) 
Just  retribution  for  such  wrongs  as  mine  ! 

(Music.  A  gong  sounds  ;  the  nymphs  arm  themselves,  and  the  rack 
descends  ;  march  ;  the  nymphs  go  through  a  succession  of  military  evo- 
lutions and  manoeuvres.} 

Queen.     Yet,  ere  we  go,  let  each,  in  mimic  fight, 
Essay  the  skill  that  shall  our  wrongs  requite. 

(Music.     A  sham  fight,  then  grand  march,  and  triumph.} 

(Exeunt,  u.  E.  L.  H.) 


SCENE  IV.  —  A  Gothic  Lorchausen  Chamber,  1  and  2  G.     Morning ; 
c.  doors  practical. 

Enter  the  BARON,  the  LADY  UNA,  RUPERT  and  his  followers,  and  the 
SENESCHAL,  R.  H.  1  E. 

Rup.  Sweet  lady,  let  us  forth :  yon  lowering  sky  is  but  the  relic 
of  last  evening's  storm. 

Una.  My  heart  is  ill  at  ease :  the  livelong  night  fantastic  dreams 
have  sought  my  ill- conforming  slumber.  (Sound  of  a  trumpet, 

R.  H.) 

Bar.  That  bold  alarum  challengeth  the  ear,  like  chafing  heralds 
sounding  to  melee.  (Music.  Gong  sounds ;  AMPHIBEO  ascends  on 
L.  H.  before  RUPERT,  in  a  suit  of  scale  armor,  and  bearing  a  gauntlet.} 

Amp.     Behold  him  here  that  will  not  brook  delay  ! 

(Chords.  The  BARON  and  the  rest  move  in  consternation ;  UNA  re- 
treats to  her  father.} 

Rup.     Malicious  fiend  !  what  bodes  this  fearful  summons  ? 

Amp.     To  bid  thee,  counterfeit,  redeem  thy  pawn, 
Or  take  thy  death  from  me,  with  the  Queen's  scorn  ! 

(  Throwing  down  the  gauntlet.} 

Rup.     I  do  agnize  the  pledge,  and  this  resign. 

(Music.     Divesting  himself  of  the  QUEEN' s  jewelled  order,  and  throw- 
ing it  to  the  dwarf  on  L.  H.) 
Be  that  thy  errand  —  she  or  death  be  mine ! 

Amp.     Enough  !      I'll  bear  thy  answer  to  the  Queen. 

(Music.  Thunder ;  the  dwarf,  bearing  the  jewelled  order,  descends, 
L.  H.,  trap.} 

Una.  (Rushing  to  the  side  of  RUPERT.)  What  compact's  this  ? 
whence  comes  yon  dreadful  foer  why  glows  thine  eye  with  that 
uncertainty  ? 

Rup.  Lady,  my  mind  was  ever  bent  on  travel,  and  strange  adven- 
tures, in  their  turn,  have  made  much  reparation  for  its  toils  and  perils. 
Of  these  you  shall  know  more  anon ;  but  now,  please  ye  retire  a  while, 
and  let  mine  honor,  till  then,  go  free  of  all  disparagement. 


SCENE   IV.]  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  25 

Bar.     Daughter,  go  in  :  my  life  for't,  he  is  valiant,  good,  and  wise. 

(Exit  LADY  UNA,  R.  H.  1  E.) 

Enter  a  MESSENGER,  in  haste,  L.  H.  1  E. 

Mes.     An  armed  host, 

Whose  forms  proclaim  them  not  of  this  world's  growth, 
Are  marching  'gainst  Lorchausen. 

(RUPERT'S  followers  draw  their  swords  menacingly.') 

Bar.     Call  my  vassals  up  !  (Exit  MESSENGER,  L.  H.  1  E.) 

Rup.     Comrades,  let  us  forth!     (Calling.}     Baptiste,  what  ho! 
—  (To  the  BARON.)     And,  sir,  commend  me  to  my  lady  love. 
"  The  Fearnought  "  sets  his  honor  on  a  cast, 
And,  should  he  fall,  may  need  her  Christian  prayers. 

Bar.  I'll  to  the  battlements  and  reconnoitre.  (Music.  Exeunt 
RUPERT  and  his  followers,  L.  H.,  the  BARON,  R.  H.  1  E.  ;  bell  rings 
alarum  ;  drums  and  trumpets,  R.  H.) 

Enter  BRIDGET,  in  consternation,  c.  D.  L.  H. 

Bri.  O !  that  ever  I  should  have  seen  the  morn  of  such  unhal- 
lowed nuptials  !  My  lady  will  be  wedded  to  the  fiend,  and  there  is 
no  help  for  it,  since  a  whole  legion  of  his  kinsfolk  are  in  league  to  bear 
her  from  the  castle.  Holy  St.  Werner  be  upon  us !  What  a  tale  is 
this  for  after  times  !  (Music.} 

Enter  BAPTISTE,  c.  D.  L.  H.,  having  the  lower  part  of  his  body  metamor- 
phosed to  a  merman,  with  a  huge  tail  of  a  fish. 

Bap.  And  what  a  tail  is  this  for  present  times  !  (BRIDGET 
screams.}  Here's  a  metamorphosis  !  here's  an  indelicate  transposition 
of  the  masculine  gender  ! 

Bri.     Mercy  !  who  has  done  this  ? 

Bap.  Who  ?  —  How  should  I  know  ?  I  am  beset  on  all  sides  by 
fiends  ;  the  four  elements  are  in  league  against  me  ;  that  abominable 
vixen,  Miss  Idex,  is  at  the  bottom  of  it  all.  Behold  !  I  am  spell- 
bound at  my  extremities  —  horribly  and  supernaturally  spell-bound  ! 
(Music.  He  shakes  his  tail  fantastically,  and  dances  round  BRIDGET, 
imitating  the  motion  of  swimming,  bellowing,  and  blowing.} 

Bri.  Thou  hast  been  wrought  upon  by  devils  :  was  ever  squire  be- 
held in  so  deplorable  a  condition  ? 

Bap.  Don't  call  me  an  esquire,  Mrs.  B.  I  am  most  marvellously 
misfitted  for  the  office  ;  I  am  nothing  but  a  bare  counterfeit —  that  is, 
I  am  flesh  fishified  from  the  middle  of  my  body  downwards  !  An 
esquire  !  —  Ho  !  ho  !  (Exhibiting  his  tail.}  Here's  a  pretty  appen- 
dage for  a  gentleman  calling  himself  an  esquire !  (Flourish  of  trum- 
pets, R.  H.)  Let  me  go  in  —  let  me  go  in  !  I've  no  longer  an  ear  for 
martial  sounds ;  I  am  only  fitted  to  be  laid  on  a  dish  in  the  buttery. 
Mrs.  B.,  I  have  been  made  a  terrible  example  of.  Let  this  (pointing 
to  his  tail}  be  a  sufficient  warning  to  all  ladies  and  gentlemen,  who 


26  THE    NAIAD    QUEEN.  [ACT  III. 

have  a  predilection  for  parties  of  pleasure  on  the  water  !  (Music. 
(Exit  BRIDGET,  c.  D.  L.  H.,  terrified;  BAPTISTE  is  following,  but  is 
stopped  and  confronted  by  IDEX,  who  enters,  c.  D.  L.  H.,  armed  cap-a- 
pie,  and  bearing  a  drawn  sword ;  a  mock  combat  takes  place  between 
them,  which  ends  by  BAPTISTE  being  led  off  tauntingly  by  IDEX,  in  her 
golden  cord,  L.  H.  1  E.) 


SCENE  V.  —  A  Romantic  View  on  the  Rhine,  4  G.  Demon  march. 
Enter,  in  procession  from  L.  H.  u.  E.,  AMPHIBEO  and  demons  of  the 
Rhine ;  with  conchshells  and  banners  with  appropriate  devices  ;  ar- 
range on  R.  and  L.  H.  ;  change  of  music  ;  grand  march  ;  procession  of 
the  Naiad  QUEEN  and  Amazon  warriors,  u.  E.  R.  H.,  in  full  armor, 
conducting  SIR  RUPERT  and  his  knights  and  followers,  with  the 
BARON,  LADY  UNA,  BRIDGET,  male  and  female  domestics ;  tableau. 

Queen,     (c.)     Errant  mortal,  I  am  come 
From  the  blue  depths  of  my  home, 
To  give  back  the  plighted  vow, 
Which  hath  left  thy  lips  but  now. 
For  that  maiden's  sake  I  yield 
What  my  heart  hath  ill  concealed,  — 
Friendship  slighted,  love  betrayed, 
Gift  and  guerdon  ill  repaid. 
That  which  chivalry  hath  won, 
Craven's  heart  had  else  undone. 
Knighthood's  fairest  meed  is  thine, 
But  the  gift  shall  still  be  mine. 
Behold ! 

(Music.  She  takes  from  her  neck  the  order  with  which  she  before  in- 
vested RUPERT,  and  replaces  it;  RUPERT  kisses  her  hand,  and  the 
QUEEN  conducts  him  to  LADY  UNA.) 

This  ordeal  ended,  so  our  mysteries 

Henceforth  shall  be  hermetically  sealed  ; 

For  ne'er  again  the  minstrel  of  the  Rhine 

To  earthly  vision  will  reveal  her  form. 

Go,  happy  pair  !     Your  queen  hath  dearly  learned 

A  task  in  wisdom's  book,  whose  moral  worth 

This  golden  precept  to  her  race  prescribes  : 

Immortal  spirits  may  not  bend  to  love 

With  mortal  frailty ;  nor  must  venturous  youths, 

On  fortune's  errand,  seek  the  siren's  lair  : 

For  many  Ruperts,  distant  time  between, 

Shall  find  too  late  there  was  but  one  queen. 

(Music.  Gong.  The  scene  changes  magically  to  fountains  of  real 
water;  Naiads  and  Water  Spirits  mingle  above  and  around,  and  the 
ethereal  blue,  emitted  through  a  strong  light,  is  thrown  upon  the  pic- 
ture.) 


SCENE   V.]  THE    NAIAD   QUEEN.  27 


FINALE. 

Now  fairy  dreams  be  on  you, 
The  lovestar  shine  upon  you  ; 

Our  pearly  shells 

Your  bridal  bells, 
And  the  happiest  lot  betide  you  ! 


SITUATIONS. 

BANNERS.  BANNERS. 

DEMONS.  BANNERS.  DEMONS. 

DEMONS.         KNIGHTS.         AMPHIBEO.         KNIGHTS.         DEMONS. 

BANNERS.  20  AMAZON  WARRIORS.  BANNERS. 

KNIGHTS.  KNIGHTS. 

20  AMAZON  WARRIORS.  20  AMAZON  WARRIORS. 

DOMESTICS.  DOMESTICS. 

FLUVIA.       UNA.       QUEEN.      IDEX.      BAPTISTE.      BRIDGET. 

RUPERT. 
BARON. 

QUICK  CURTAIN. 

a.  H.  L.  H. 


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